The Clearwater River Casino's efforts to secure a liquor license for its new convention center cleared the final legislative hurdle Thursday and now head to the governor's office.
The Senate approved legislation that would allow federally recognized Indian tribes to get a liquor license if they own and operate a convention center and lodging facility on reservation lands that has at least 35,000 square feet of space and 50 rooms.
The Nez Perce Tribe owns the casino.
“This is not just about an entertainment center getting a liquor license,” said Sen. Dan Johnson, R-Lewiston. “This is part of a bigger plan the Nez Perce Tribe has to be self-sufficient.”
Johnson noted that funds generated by the casino and other tribal business enterprises go to benefit education, law enforcement, social services and other programs.
The vote was 27-7, with Johnson, Sen. Sheryl Nuxoll of Cottonwood and Sen. Dan Schmidt of Moscow all voting in support.
